Annette Waldron, born Aug. 6, 1924, died on Vashon, on Nov. 25, 2008.

She was the youngest of five children (four girls and one boy). She was born and raised on Long Island, N.Y., and later worked for a defense plant that produced the Thunderbolt Fighters used in World War II.

Waldron moved to Richmond, Calif., in 1950, where she met Ira Waldron on a blind date. They married three months later. She spent most of her career raising her eight children and working as a bookbinder for the printing industry. The family lived in Richmond until 1995, when they followed their grandchildren to Vashon. It was on Vashon that Waldron found her Shangri-la.

She was known for her generosity, artistic talent and delicious pies and cheesecakes. She is survived by her husband Ira, of more than 58 years; her sister Irene Robertson of Grass Valley, Calif.; her son Glenn and daughters Sherrie, Renee, Yvonne, Michelle, Monique and Marcella; grandchildren Jamey, Joseph, Alyssa, Caitlin, Daniel, Gary, Ira, Melody and Glenn Jr. She was preceded in death by her oldest son Gary and siblings Bill, Bea and Fran.

Waldron’s family said they are thankful for the excellent care Waldron received from the staff at the Vashon Community Care Center following an injury she sustained on her 84th birthday. Waldron’s children added that they are also thankful to the staff for looking after their dad during his daily visits.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Diabetes Association.